[44F] With severe body pain, mild chest pain, and chronic conditions

Question

Ways to get relief?

Patient Description

A 44-year-old female presents with severe, throbbing all-over body pain that began five days ago following house cleaning. The pain is rated as 10/10 in severity and is exacerbated by walking, standing, and attempting to sleep. Aspirin and Aleve have not provided relief. The patient also reports lightheadedness, fatigue, nausea, and mild chest pain, which improved after taking aspirin. There is no shortness of breath or palpitations, but the patient feels hot, similar to having a fever, though the temperature has not been measured. Stiffness is noted, and there has been weight loss attributed to diet and Trulicity use. The patient has a history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and hypothyroidism, diagnosed in 2009, and is currently on Synthroid (300 mcg) and Trulicity (75 mg weekly). Family history includes Graves' disease and Parkinson's. No known drug allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described and your medical history, here are some possibilities:

  1. Fibromyalgia: This condition can cause widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and other symptoms like sleep disturbances and cognitive difficulties. The sudden onset of throbbing pain after physical activity, like cleaning, could be indicative of fibromyalgia, especially since you've experienced similar pain in the past.

  2. Hypothyroidism Flare: Given your history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and hypothyroidism, it's possible that your symptoms of fatigue, body pain, and feeling hot could be related to fluctuations in your thyroid hormone levels. This can sometimes happen even when on medication like Synthroid.

  3. Diabetic Neuropathy: Since you have diabetes, the body pain and lightheadedness could be related to diabetic neuropathy, a condition where high blood sugar levels cause nerve damage.

  4. Viral Infection: The combination of body pain, fatigue, nausea, and feeling hot could also suggest a viral infection, which can sometimes present with these symptoms.

  5. Medication Side Effects: Trulicity, a medication for diabetes, can sometimes cause side effects like nausea and fatigue, which might be contributing to your symptoms.

What you can do

All-over body pain and fatigue:

  • Consult your doctor: It's important to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider, especially given their severity and impact on your daily life. They may want to adjust your medications or investigate further.
  • Gentle exercise: Engage in low-impact activities like walking or stretching, which can help alleviate some pain and stiffness.
  • Heat therapy: Applying a warm compress or taking a warm bath may help soothe muscle pain.

Chest pain:

  • Monitor symptoms: Since the chest pain improved with aspirin, continue to monitor it. If it worsens or you experience new symptoms like shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately.

Lightheadedness and nausea:

  • Stay hydrated: Ensure you're drinking enough fluids, as dehydration can contribute to these symptoms.
  • Eat small, frequent meals: This can help manage nausea and maintain energy levels.

General health:

  • Track symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share insights with your healthcare provider. This can help identify patterns and inform treatment decisions.

What you should look out for

  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.
  • Monitor for new symptoms like swelling, redness, or warmth in specific areas, which could indicate an infection or other issue.
  • Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important to manage your existing conditions and adjust treatments as needed.

Remember, while I can provide guidance based on the information you've shared, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

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3 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of fibromyalgia, and how is it diagnosed?

Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. Diagnosis is typically based on a history of widespread pain lasting more than three months and the exclusion of other conditions. A physical exam may reveal tender points on the body.


Can hypothyroidism cause sudden changes in symptoms even when on medication?

Yes, hypothyroidism can cause fluctuations in symptoms due to changes in thyroid hormone levels, even when on medication. Factors such as stress, illness, or changes in medication dosage can contribute to these fluctuations. Regular monitoring of thyroid levels and consultation with a healthcare provider are important.


What are the signs of diabetic neuropathy, and how can it be managed?

Diabetic neuropathy often presents with symptoms like numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness, particularly in the hands and feet. Management includes controlling blood sugar levels, pain relief medications, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a healthy diet.


What are the potential side effects of Trulicity, and how can they be mitigated?

Trulicity can cause side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues. To mitigate these, it's important to follow the prescribed dosage, take the medication with food, and stay hydrated. If side effects persist, consult with a healthcare provider for possible adjustments.


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1 Comments


Arora (Bot)#28060

3 mo ago

It sounds like you're going through a really tough time right now, and I'm sorry to hear about the intense pain and discomfort you're experiencing. It's important to take these symptoms seriously, especially given their severity and the impact on your daily life. Reaching out to your healthcare provider is a crucial step to ensure you get the right care and potentially adjust any treatments you may be on. In the meantime, be gentle with yourself and try to incorporate some small, soothing activities, like gentle stretching or a warm bath, to see if they offer any relief. Remember to keep track of your symptoms and any changes you notice, as this can be really helpful information for your doctor. Please take care and don't hesitate to seek medical attention if anything feels off or if your symptoms worsen. You're not alone in this, and support is available to help you through it.

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